Even when you get what you want, you still feel trapped.
Jonathan Fanzen – Freedom
Unfulfilled Achievement
U
“Freedom” by Jonathan Franzen is a sweeping family saga that delves into the lives of the Berglund family over several decades. The novel primarily focuses on Patty and Walter Berglund, a seemingly perfect couple living in suburban St. Paul, Minnesota. As their personal and professional lives unravel, the story explores themes of love, fidelity, and the pursuit of happiness. Walter’s environmental activism, Patty’s struggles with her past and identity, and their children’s rebellion against their values create a complex portrait of modern American life. Interwoven with their narrative are broader social issues such as political corruption, environmental degradation, and the impact of corporate greed. Through its richly developed characters and incisive social commentary, “Freedom” offers a profound examination of personal and collective freedom in contemporary society.